Chapter 35: Growned up

**Waking Up**

As they arrived in the small village, Alex finally stirred, slowly regaining consciousness. He looked up and saw Yuki gently pushing his cart through the bustling streets. "Morning, Yuki," he said, his voice still weak but filled with warmth.

Yuki smiled down at him, relief evident in her eyes. "Morning to you too, Alex. Thrain is over at a stall, arguing with the vendor to get you the best eyepatch there is. He said it will be a black one in perfect condition."

Alex chuckled softly. "That sounds nice."

**Getting the Eyepatch**

A few moments later, Thrain called out to him from across the village square. "Hey, my boy! I got you an eyepatch to wear!" Thrain waved excitedly, a small package in his hand.

With Yuki's help, Alex got up from the cart and climbed onto a nearby table. Thrain approached him, carefully unwrapping the eyepatch and fitting it over Alex's empty eye socket. "It's a perfect fit, my boy," Thrain said, his voice filled with pride.

Alex smiled, feeling the smooth fabric against his skin. "Thanks, old man."

**Preparing to Leave**

After putting on the eyepatch, Alex climbed back into the cart, still feeling the lingering pain from his injuries. Yuki placed a gentle hand on his shoulder. "Take it easy, Alex. You need to heal properly."

Alex nodded, appreciating her concern. They gathered their things and prepared to head back onto the road. As they left the village, snow began to fall, blanketing the landscape in a serene white.

**Into the Northern Mountains**

The group made their way into the northern mountain region, the cold wind biting at their faces. Months passed as they journeyed through the harsh terrain. The snow was relentless, but so was their determination.

During this time, Alex regained his strength. The pain subsided, and he was soon back on his feet, ready to fight again. His resolve had only grown stronger, and he was eager to continue their journey.

**A View of Nothra**

One day, as they walked through the snow-covered mountains, Alex approached a cliff. From there, he could see the city of Nothra in the distance. The sight was breathtaking: the city lights twinkled like stars, and the ports were bustling with boats heading to the new world.

He stood there, the cold wind whipping through his hair, a man transformed by his experiences. At the age of 28, with a black eyepatch covering his left eye, he knew that his journey was far from over. He had come a long way, but there were still many adventures to be had, many challenges to face.

**A New Resolve**

As he looked out over the city, he felt a deep sense of gratitude for his friends. Thrain, Yuki, and Lila had been with him through thick and thin, and he knew they would face whatever came next together.

Turning back to the group, Alex smiled, feeling the weight of the past lift slightly from his shoulders. "Let's go," he said, his voice filled with determination. "Our journey isn't over yet."

Thrain clapped him on the back. "That's the spirit, my boy."

Yuki and Lila nodded, their faces showing the same resolve.

Together, they continued their journey towards Nothra, ready for whatever lay ahead. The future was uncertain, but they would face it head-on, as they always had.

This concludes Chapter Thirty-Five.